A cooperative is an autonomous association of persons united voluntarily to meet their common economic, social, and cultural needs and aspirations through a jointly-owned and democratically-controlled enterprise.
Whole Foods Co-op is a consumer-owned cooperative. It is a business voluntarily owned and controlled by its Owners.
1. Voluntary and Open Membership
No tests, no prerequisites.
2. Democratic Member Control
No matter how much equity an Owner contributes, each Owner has only one vote and, therefore, equal say.
3. Member Economic Participation
Shop more, save more!
4. Autonomy and Independence
We’re consumer-owned, that’s the difference.
5. Education,Training, and Information
We love offering free community classes!
6. Co-operation among Co-operatives
“Many hands make light work”– Grandma Irene
7. Concern for Community
Although a co-op needs to be profitable to remain in business, the Co-op also exists to serve the community, not solely to make a profit for its shareholders.